BY RODRICK DESURI
AUKI
About five timber bridges along the South Road in Malaita Province are in urgent need of repair and are causing fear among passengers, especially women and children.
The bridges include Oibola, Maoro, and Afatafa in Central Kwara’ae, and Sinasu and Ngariwane in West Kwaio.
Built in the 1990s, the bridges have only been maintained through minor timber replacements over the years.
Long-time vehicle driver Christ Kirana warned that the bridges’ current condition could lead to accidents.
“The timbers of the bridges are broken, rotten, and have no strength. Even the nails and wires are already rusted,” he said.
A young teacher, Raphaelle Mosokeni, expressed similar concerns.
“Yes, the bridges need urgent fixing as soon as possible. This is to prevent any tragedy related to the bridges,” she said.
Last month, four road improvement contracts were signed under the Australian Government’s National Transport Fund (NTF) for Malaita Province.
The upgrades include Busurata Road in Central Kwara’ae, awarded to Exodus Trade Development, and Maoa in West Kwaio to Hauhui in West Are’are, awarded to Trades Transformation Company.
It is unclear if the timber bridges are included in these contracts.
Island Sun Auki understands that once the road upgrades are completed, they will provide safer and more comfortable access for road users and passengers in Southern Malaita.
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